Funicular train services in Bukit Bendera will be temporarily closed for nine days beginning January 6 for the first scheduled annual maintenance.

The Penang Hill Corporation (PHC) in a statement said the train operation will resume as normal after the annual maintenance on January 15.

"The scheduled maintenance will be carried out under the supervision of the funicular manufacturer Garaventa AG of Switzerland to ensure that the alarm system is in top condition and under strict security checks.

"Visitors to the tourist center can choose to use the jeepney services run by private companies from the Botanical Garden or use the hiking trails to reach the summit of Bukit Bendera during the closing period," the statement said.

PHC apologizes for any inconvenience this may have caused and thanks to all visitors for their patience and continued support to Bukit Bendera.